Gifts To Brighten Children's Center

Hoffman Estates — A few much-needed items are being checked off the holiday wish list at the Children's Advocacy Center, thanks to contributions from the Walter Payton Foundation and Target stores.

"This center accomplishes so much," said Mayor Michael O'Malley. "These are wonderful gifts, especially at this time of the year."

On behalf of the center, O'Malley accepted a $3,500 check from Payton and a $500 check from officials from Target. The money, according to Erin Sorenson, executive director of the center, will be used for things like brightly colored paint, drapery and refurbishing jobs. Target also donated a toy kitchen set.

The Advocacy Center, a not-for-profit agency that was established in 1989, provides coordination and follow-up care for children who have been involved in physical and sexual abuse cases in the northwest suburbs. Last year, some 400 children were served. The center, which operates as part of the Cook County Circuit Court's Third District, will open a satellite office in Niles after the first of the year.